Description
This Slow Cooker Mustard Herb Chicken with Orzo is an easy, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken thighs or breasts slow-cooked with Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, and garlic. The orzo pasta absorbs the savory broth creating a creamy, comforting dish perfect for effortless weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Flavorings and Herbs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Base and Cooking Liquids
- 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Lightly coat them with olive oil, then evenly spread Dijon mustard over each piece to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Layer ingredients in the slow cooker: Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and chopped parsley over the chicken. Add the dry orzo pasta on top of the chicken and herbs. Carefully pour in the low sodium chicken broth and lemon juice, making sure not to stir to maintain layering and even cooking.
- Cook on low heat: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while the orzo absorbs the flavorful broth and herbs.
- Final touches: Once cooking is completed, gently stir the mixture to combine the creamy orzo with the savory cooking juices. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley or herbs before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
- Ensure not to stir the slow cooker contents before cooking to prevent the orzo from clumping.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, rosemary, and parsley if fresh is unavailable.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Slow Cooker Chicken, Mustard Herb Chicken, Orzo Pasta, One-Pot Meal, Slow Cooker Dinner, Healthy Chicken Recipes
